Justification:Luzonichthys williamsi has been assessed as Least Concern. Although it has a restricted distribution, the reefs within this species range are reported to be relatively healthy, no significant threats are known and the population is likely to be stable.

Luzonichthys williamsi is only known from 5 specimens and is endemic to the Loyalty Islands, France in the western Pacific. It may also be found to occur around New Caledonia (G. R. Allen pers. comm. 2009).

The basslet, Luzonichthys williamsi, is a midwater coral reef species that has a depth range of 22 to 50 m. It is seen on the outer-reef slope in groups feeding on zooplankton. It has also been collected over patches of coral rubble. This is a small short-lived species.

This species co-occurs with the very similar Luzonichthys whitleyi, and L. waitei, and may well occur in mixed-species aggregations.

Luzonichthys williamsi may be taken for the aquarium trade as small serranids from the Anthiinae sub-family are known to be of particular value within the trade (FAO 1999), but this is unlikely to be driving rapid declines. The restricted range of this species also implies that it may be at risk from intrinsic factors which affect small populations.

Due to this species association with coral reef habitats, it is likely to be undergoing declines in areas impacted by destructive fishing practices. In 2001, the reefs around the Loyalty Islands were impacted by a number of threats including Crown of Thorns starfish outbreaks and coral bleaching, however they are showing good signs of recovery (Wilkinson 2004). Overall, the coral reefs within this species range are considered to be in good condition.

Studies from the neighbouring island of New Caledonia have shown that surrounding coastal waters are subjected to large inputs of metals, mainly due to nickel production. In addition, natural erosion of the soils associated with tropical rainfall, urban development and lack of efficient wastewater treatment (Ambastian et al. 1997) may pose a threat in the future.

At present there don't appear to be any significant threats or reason to assume the species is undergoing declines.